Most adults have had at least one or two fillings in their lifetime. A dental filling is a standard procedure that treats small holes, known as cavities, in the tooth. While fillings are a common practice in our clinic, we understand they can be intimidating. Our team at Garibaldi Crossing Dental is committed to providing professional, compassionate, and reliable dental care for our patients. We use safe and effective methods to prioritize our patients’ comfort, health, and happiness.
Trust in Garibaldi Crossing Dental to be your partner in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health.
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Understanding Dental Fillings: What and Why?
Dental fillings are a common and essential treatment to restore teeth damaged by decay or injury. The primary purpose of this procedure is to fill a cavity (or hole) in the tooth, restoring the tooth’s appearance, strength, and function. At Garibaldi Crossing Dental, we no longer offer mercury-containing amalgam (silver) fillings and choose to provide composite (white) fillings instead. A modern and effective solution, composite fillings are our preferred restorative material for repairing damage, discolouration, and cavities.
Composite fillings are made from resin and fillers (such as plastic or fine glass), offering significant benefits over traditional materials. Most notably, composite fillings offer an aesthetic appeal, closely matching the colour of a natural tooth. They provide a more discreet and visually pleasing result. Regarding durability, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, providing excellent support and withstanding moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing.
While the final look of your filling is important, safety is another factor in opting for composite fillings over other types. We use the latest in composite technology and avoid the use of products containing Bis-GMA and Bisphenol A (BPA). In providing these services we also eliminate mercury contamination of our environment and keep our waterways clean!
Signs You May Need a Filling
- Sharp or throbbing pain when chewing or biting
- Dark spots on your tooth
- Frequently getting food stuck between your teeth
- Chipped or fractured tooth
- Cracks, breaks, or displacement with your current filling
- Sensitivity with hot or cold food
Prevent Problems with Regular Dental Care
Regular dental visits are essential for the early detection of dental issues such as cavities. These check-ups allow for prompt intervention - often through services like tooth fillings - preventing cavities from deepening or leading to more severe problems like tooth infections or bone loss. Early treatment with fillings not only preserves the natural tooth structure but also maintains overall oral health. By catching and addressing issues early, Garibaldi Crossing Dental helps patients avoid complex procedures and ensures long-term dental wellness.
What to Expect from Your Dental Filling
- Initial Consultation: We start with a thorough examination of your oral health to see if a filling is necessary. To determine the extent of the damage, we may take digital X-rays to gain a detailed view of the tooth structure.
- Tooth Preparation: To ensure your comfort and provide a pain-free experience, we will numb the affected area using a local anesthetic. We then remove the decayed part of the tooth, ensuring the tooth is in a healthy state to receive the filling.
- Filling Placement: We will clean and dry the cavity, then apply the composite filling material. The filling is shaped to match the tooth's natural contours for optimal function and aesthetics.
- Curing and Polishing: The filling is hardened using a special light. Afterwards, we polish the composite to ensure a smooth, comfortable finish that feels natural in your mouth.
- Post-Treatment Care: Our team will provide detailed instructions on caring for your filled tooth, including oral hygiene practices, dietary advice, and follow-up visits if needed, to ensure the health and longevity of your filling.
Personalized Dental Services for Optimal Health and Comfort
At Garibaldi Crossing Dental, we are dedicated to providing personalized, patient-centred dental care. We understand that every patient has unique oral health needs and we tailor our treatment to meet those specific requirements. Whatever your concern, we are here to safeguard your comfort and secure your oral health. Whether it’s providing thorough cleanings or safe and functional fillings, we use the latest technology to detect concerns early on, ensuring nothing is overlooked. With our quality dental care and personalized approach, you can rest easy knowing your oral health is always prioritized.
